Welcome @Kevin W. glad you're immersing yourself in all things Biggerpockets!

I've begun networking with local REIA members and immersing myself in REI literature (just bought 10 books, haha).

That's not to say start tossing around a bunch of money for fun, but the more immersed you get the faster you'll learn.

You get to immerse yourself in the top producers business  .. 

I am semi-retired from the fire sprinkler/alarm/security industry and have immersed myself in commercial real estate.

Although being paid to fly around the country to help people in different markets sounds appealing, I've always advised others to buy local help, and believe mentees will generally have a better experience w/ someone who's immersed in their market and available to meet face to face regularly.  

How do you immerse yourself in the data?

I'm trying to find the time to immerse myself in all the resources, there just aren't enough hours in the day it seems :)  For now, I believe I need to focus on figuring out the Kodiak scene- something I don't have a good measure on yet, but as I grow in my knowledge and outreach I'll hopefully be able to report back.  

It doesn't matter if you are young or old, totally new or need to build upon your experience.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions, take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to your existing holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

Other than that, I have so much downtime and still so much to learn/experience, which makes me feel like there are things I could be doing every day to immerse myself in real estate investing even further.